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Ericsson named main 5G network supplier for ICE's Costa Rica deployment

By: IDCNOVARegion: Middle East
Ericsson has been selected by the Instituto Costarricense de Electricidad (ICE) as the primary network supplier for the state-owned carrier's 5G deployment across Costa Rica. The agreement, first confirmed in May and estimated to be worth $220 million, positions Ericsson as the lead radio vendor for the nationwide rollout, with additional details of the scope revealed last week.

Under the terms of the deal, Ericsson will supply its 5G RAN and 5G Core for ICE's network, including the dual-mode 5G Core alongside 4G and 5G RAN solutions. The new network will be built on 5G Standalone (5G SA) architecture and LTE radio nodes, supported by a comprehensive 5G Core solution. The deployment is expected to enable advanced use cases such as network slicing, enhanced cybersecurity, open and standardized interfaces, and expanded LTE RAN coverage.

ICE, which provides mobile services through its retail brand Kölbi, will also integrate the Ericsson Intelligent Automation Platform (EIAP) into its operations. EIAP is Ericsson's network management and automation platform designed for open, multi-vendor, and multi-technology environments, supporting all 4G and 5G RAN as well as Ericsson-provided core networks. As part of the partnership, ICE will trial a cluster of AI-powered Anomal Optimization rApps from Ericsson on the platform, aimed at improving network detection, optimization, and resilience.

Sean Cryan, customer unit head for Latam North & Caribbean at Ericsson, emphasized the company's commitment to Costa Rica, stating: "We reiterate our strong commitment to Costa Rica, and our priority is to provide cutting-edge technology that meets the highest standards of quality, security and performance, enabling ICE and the country to fully realize the benefits of 5G and elevate their service portfolio for customers, citizens and institutions, while supporting the continued growth of connectivity in Costa Rica."

The 5G network is slated to go live within the next 12 months as part of a phased rollout, according to earlier reports. This contract marks Ericsson's second major 5G engagement in Costa Rica, following its work with Liberty Costa Rica on 5G Standalone services. Competitor Claro has also deployed its own 5G network in the country, intensifying the competitive landscape as operators race to expand next-generation connectivity in the region.

The win underscores Ericsson's growing footprint in Latin America's telecom sector, particularly as regional carriers accelerate 5G adoption. By securing both ICE and Liberty Costa Rica as clients, Ericsson has established a dominant position in the country's 5G market, which could influence future vendor selections across Central America as other state-owned and private operators evaluate their own network modernization plans.